Great tips to keep you motivated once you've completed the Couch to 5K running programme.

If you've taken on the challenge of the Couch to 5K (C25K) plan and completed it, well done!

You must be feeling a great sense of achievement, not to mention being fitter and healthier.

Now that C25K has got you into regular running, the challenge is to not lose this life-enhancing habit. One way of staying motivated beyond C25K is to find a new focus.

Keep on running

Running podcasts
Keep on running with the Couch to 5K+ podcast series, designed for C25K graduates. Each 5K+ podcast provides a structured run with running music and coaching to develop your running technique, speed and stamina.

Work on techniqueHow about fine-tuning your running style? Working on your running technique will help make your runs feel less tiring, reduce your risk of injury and ultimately be more enjoyable. Read our 10 tips on how to run correctly.

Join a running club
A running club is the perfect way to commit to running regularly. Most clubs have running groups for different levels, including beginners. Clubs are also a great way to find running partners to run with outside of club sessions.

Plan your next challengeWhy not sign up for a running event to stay motivated for your weekly runs? Setting yourself the challenge of taking part in a 5K or 10K run is one way to keep going. Find a running event near you.

A change of sceneryYou could try a different environment – if you've been running in the streets, for example, try to find a green space, such as a park, to run in.

You could also try varying the terrain. Look for some hills in your local area and give yourself a bit of a challenge.

Try something new

Now you've tackled running, why not consider other activities?

You could try Strength and Flex– a five-week plan to improve your strength and flexibility, which can also benefit your running.

Check out the video workouts in the NHS Fitness Studio. Take your pick from our instructor-led classes in our aerobics, strength and resistance, pilates and yoga categories.